1991 GMC W5500 Forward

Introduction:

The 1991 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 19,500 pounds. It is powered by a 7.4-liter V8 engine, which produces 230 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the truck comes standard with two-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive is available as an option.

Owners of the GMC W5500 Forward appreciate its powerful engine, rugged construction, and spacious cab. However, the truck has also been plagued by a number of issues, which are detailed below.

Engine:

• 7.4-liter V8
  • Intake manifold gaskets failing
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, rough idling, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cylinder head cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the cylinder head, overheating, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace cylinder head
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension:

• Front suspension:
  • Ball joints wearing out
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, difficulty steering
    • Solution: Replace ball joints
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension:
  • Leaf springs breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, difficulty handling loads
    • Solution: Replace leaf springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Electrical system:
  • Alternator failing
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine
    • Solution: Replace alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery draining
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery going dead after a short period of time, difficulty starting the engine
    • Solution: Replace battery or find source of parasitic drain
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• No Issues Found

Interior:

• Dashboard:
  • Instrument cluster malfunctioning
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, warning lights not illuminating
    • Solution: Replace instrument cluster
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1991 GMC W5500 Forward is a powerful and capable truck, but it has also been plagued by a number of issues. The most common problems are with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of the issues varies, but some can be quite expensive to fix. If you are considering purchasing a W5500 Forward, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems.